Leaning traffic light causes unease in some Algiers drivers

UPDATED 5:59 PM CDT Apr 09, 2013

NEW ORLEANS -

Some drivers in Algiers said a leaning traffic light poses a safety hazard at a busy intersection.

"I'm passing underneath there right now, and I'm afraid anything could happen. It could fall," driver Chester Brown said about the light on South Holiday Drive between General Degaulle Drive and Behrman Place.

"A boat came through here -- one of those shrimp boats -- and they hit the other day, so I mean, it's dangerous. It can fall over and kill someone," driver Leander Hall said.

Some drivers said the way the light is angled makes it unclear who has the right-of-way.

"A lot of people run it. I guess they think the light is on them, but it's not," Mary Gumms said.

New Orleans city councilwoman Kristen Palmer said in a written statement that her office sent a message to the Department of Public Works regarding the situation, but has not yet received a response.

The Department of Public Works said inspections determine that the mast arm pole, while damaged, is still securely fastened to its foundation and each direction of travel has two visible, working signal lights.

City officials said the intersection will receive new poles in the coming weeks, and if conditions warrant, immediate corrective actions will be taken to ensure motorists' safety.